Translation of Japanese word "丁寧" to English
丁寧
ていねい
[teinei]
IPA: /teinei/
Meaning
AdjectiveWell-mannered, civilized.
How to use
丁寧 (teinei) — 'polite / courteous / careful'. な-adjective. 丁寧な対応 — polite treatment. 丁寧語 (teineigo) — polite language. Japanese adjectives inflect directly for tense and negation, functioning similarly to verbs in some ways.
🇬🇧 English
polite / careful
Pronunciation Guide
Japanese Kanji: 丁寧
Phonetic Reading (Hiragana): ていねい
Romaji Transcription: teinei
Example Sentences
この人に丁寧な言葉を言うと、嬉しいです。
このひとにていねいなことばをいうと、うれしいです。
Saying polite words to this person makes them happy.
丁寧な対応は、客を喜ばせます。
ていねいなたいおうは、きゃくをよろこばせます。
Polite service makes customers happy.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationCommon phrases
- 丁寧語— polite language / speech
- この人に丁寧な言葉を言うと、嬉しいです。— Saying polite words to this person makes them happy.
More Adjectives words
Frequency rank: #908 in Japanese
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common Japanese words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Japanese word "丁寧" mean?▼
The Japanese word "丁寧" means "polite / careful" in English.
How do you pronounce the Japanese word "丁寧"?▼
The word "丁寧" is read as "ていねい" (teinei). You can hear the correct audio pronunciation by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see a usage guide or example with "丁寧"?▼
Yes, here is a practical context/example: "この人に丁寧な言葉を言うと、嬉しいです。".
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →